How to Discharge a Square D Breaker

A home's electrical system is comprised of a main power wire from the utility company that is divided up into many branches inside the distribution panel. The electrical breakers protect each branch and are thought of as the brains of the system. They do this by turning off the power when they sense an over current situation. A Square D breaker is an American brand of breaker that operates similar to any other breaker.

Non-contact voltage detector

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the main breaker that turns off the power to the whole building. This is typically the large breaker at the top of the panel in a combination box. It can also be a separate electrical box with one big switch.
- 2
  Turn the power off to the building by opening the main breaker. Since breaker's can't store electricity, this discharges the power from the Square D breaker.
- 3
  Touch a non-contact voltage detector to the branch wire's insulation that the breaker feeds. If the detector illuminates or beeps, there is still power in the breaker. Find the correct main breaker and shut it off.
- 4
  Move the Square D's switch to the off position. The power is now turned off in two locations for added protection.

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